Hillsdale board takes steps to reduce all salaries 10 percent

By Courtney DayT-G Staff Writer Published: November 21, 2012 6:17 AM

A motion directing Hillsdale Local Schools officials to approach the leaders of both teachers and non-teaching employee unions to propose an amendment to the current collective bargaining agreements to reduce employees salaries and wages by ten percent effective January 21, 2013 was passed by the districts board of education at its regular meeting Tuesday.

The pay cut, if accepted, would apply to all school employees including administrators and those not part of either bargaining unit.

The board also approved the first round of cuts to balance the budget, including 1) implementing an activity fee for participation in all school activities beginning with the winter sports season, 2) restricting of access to school buildings after school hours with the exception of school activities and paid room rentals, and 3) instructing the superintendent and treasurer to begin the review process for a reduction in force to be effective in January 2013.

Reductions in force would include an estimated six to nine positions cut this school year according to board president Patsy Dole. If the unions approve the wage reductions, however, reductions in force may not be made this year, said board member Ken Schuck.

The boards actions are in the wake of the failure of a combination property-tax, income-tax operating levy on the Nov. 6 ballot, which school officials said were necessary to avoid upcoming budget deficits.

For a complete report on Tuesdays board meeting, see Fridays Times-Gazette.